Discover the Chiesa e Museo di Orsanmichele (Florence)

Places to See

On the ground floor of the Chiesa e Museo di Orsanmichele, you’ll find a church known for its stunning Gothic architecture and religious artifacts. The most famous work here is Andrea Orcagna’s masterpiece, the Tabernacle of the Virgin Mary, which houses Bernardo Daddi’s miraculous Madonna and Child with Angels. Another important attraction is the beautiful marble statue of St. Anne, created by Francesco da Sangallo in 1526.

Moving up to the upper level is the Museo dell’Orsanmichele, which houses 13 original statues that once adorned the hollows in the exterior walls of the building. These statues were commissioned by the leading Florentine guilds and sculpted by renowned Renaissance artists such as Donatello (St. Mark and St. Peter), Andrea del Verrocchio (St. Thomas the Pious), and Lorenzo Ghiberti (John the Baptist). Don’t forget to enjoy the stunning panoramic view of Florence from the top floor of the museum. This museum provides the perfect setting to appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship of these historic statues in an intimate setting.

Things Not to Miss

• The Tabernacle of the Virgin Mary: One of the most important works of religious art in Florence, this Tabernacle houses a miraculous statue that once drew worshippers from all over the city.
• Guild Statues: Original sculptures by renowned artists such as Donatello and Ghiberti represent the historical guilds of Florence and their patron saints.
• Panoramic View: The top floor of the museum offers one of the best panoramic views of Florence.

Sightseeing Tips

• Timing of visits: The museum has fixed opening hours, so check in advance. The church is open daily except Tuesdays, closing at 1:00 p.m. The museum is open only on Monday and Saturday mornings until 12:30 PM.
• Don’t miss the view: The top floor of the museum offers a magnificent view of Florence, making it an ideal spot for photographers and those who want to capture the city’s beauty from a unique perspective.
• Guided Tours: While reservations aren’t required, consider using a guided or mobile audio tour like the Rick Steves Guide. This can enhance your experience by diving into the historical background of the artworks.
• Stairway Warning: Be prepared to climb a lot of stairs to reach the upper floors of the museum. Although it might be a bit of a workout, the reward is breathtaking art and views.

Access

Chiesa e Museo di Orsanmichele is centrally located on Via Lana, close to the Duomo, the Uffizi Gallery, and other major landmarks. If you are exploring Florence’s historic center, the church is easily accessible on foot. Santa Maria Novella train station is just a 15-minute walk away, and buses run nearby. The church’s convenient location makes it an ideal stop while visiting other attractions in Florence.

Hours of Operation

• Church: Daily 08:30 – 13:00, closed on Tuesdays.
• Museum: Open Monday and Saturday mornings until 12:30 PM.

Ticket Prices

• Admission to the church is free.
• Museum admission is approximately €8 per person. Combo tickets are also available, allowing access to nearby attractions such as the Bargello Museum.